Introduction

Diablo Shrimp is a fiery, flavorful dish that brings the heat to your dinner table with a perfect balance of succulent shrimp and a spicy, smoky sauce. If you’re someone who loves bold flavors, this dish is a must-try! The combination of chili, tangy tomatoes, and the richness of garlic and butter creates a sauce that’s as complex as it is delicious. It’s the kind of dish that not only satisfies your cravings for spice but also leaves a lasting impression.

I remember making Diablo Shrimp for the first time when I wanted to try something new for a dinner party. The moment I served it, everyone was blown away by how vibrant and full of flavor it was. It’s got just the right amount of heat, with a smoky depth that really elevates the shrimp. The best part? It’s so easy to make, and the rich sauce coats the shrimp beautifully, making each bite a burst of flavor.

What I love about Diablo Shrimp is how versatile it is. You can serve it over rice, alongside crusty bread to soak up the sauce, or even toss it with pasta for a complete meal. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or looking to spice up your weeknight meals, this dish is guaranteed to impress. So, if you’re in the mood for something with a kick, this dish is definitely worth trying!

Perfect for:

Spicy food lovers
Dinner parties
Weeknight dinners
Special occasions
Seafood enthusiasts

Why You’ll Love This Diablo Shrimp Recipe

Here’s why Diablo Shrimp will become one of your go-to dishes:

Bold and Spicy Flavor: With its combination of hot chili, smoky paprika, and garlic, Diablo Shrimp delivers a rich, spicy kick in every bite.
Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it the perfect choice for a quick weeknight meal or a spontaneous dinner party.
Juicy Shrimp: The shrimp are cooked to perfection, tender and juicy, and infused with all the bold flavors of the sauce.
Versatile: Diablo Shrimp can be served with a variety of sides, such as rice, pasta, or even on its own as an appetizer.
Customizable Heat Level: You can adjust the level of spice by controlling the amount of chili or hot sauce, making it as fiery or mild as you like.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein: 25g, Carbs: 12g, Fat: 28g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Diablo Shrimp:

1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
2-3 tablespoons chili paste (adjust for heat)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 cup crushed tomatoes
½ cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon lime juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

Shrimp: The star of the dish, shrimp are tender and cook quickly, making them perfect for a speedy yet flavorful meal.
Chili Paste: Adds the necessary heat and depth to the dish, giving Diablo Shrimp its signature spiciness.
Smoked Paprika: Infuses the sauce with a smoky flavor that balances the heat of the chili paste.
Crushed Tomatoes: Provides a rich, tangy base for the sauce, creating the perfect complement to the spices.
Chicken Broth: Adds a savory, rich flavor to the sauce, helping it come together into a smooth and flavorful dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Diablo Shrimp:

Prepare the Shrimp:

Clean and Prep the Shrimp: Peel and devein the shrimp if not already done. Pat them dry with paper towels to ensure they sear properly when cooked.

Make the Diablo Sauce:

Heat the Pan: In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium-high heat until hot and melted.
Cook the Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the pan. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
Add the Spices: Stir in the chili paste, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom and release their flavors.
Add the Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Cook the Shrimp:

Cook the Shrimp: Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them to the simmering sauce. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until the shrimp are opaque and cooked through.
Finish with Lime Juice: Once the shrimp are cooked, stir in the lime juice to add a fresh, tangy flavor that brightens the sauce.

Serve:

Serve the Diablo Shrimp: Remove the pan from the heat. Garnish the shrimp with fresh cilantro, and serve immediately with your choice of sides.

How to Serve Diablo Shrimp Recipe

Diablo Shrimp can be served in a variety of ways:

Over Rice: Serve the shrimp and sauce over a bed of white, brown, or cilantro-lime rice for a complete meal.
With Pasta: Pair Diablo Shrimp with pasta, such as linguine or spaghetti, for a flavorful and satisfying dish.
With Warm Bread: Serve with crusty bread to soak up the spicy sauce, creating a delicious side to complement the shrimp.
As an Appetizer: Dish out smaller portions of Diablo Shrimp in small bowls for a fiery and flavorful appetizer.
Topped with Avocado: For a creamy contrast to the spice, top the shrimp with slices of fresh avocado or guacamole.

Additional Tips for Diablo Shrimp Recipe

Here are some tips to ensure your Diablo Shrimp turns out perfect:

Adjust the Heat Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of chili paste and red pepper flakes. You can also add a bit of honey or sugar to balance the heat.
Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp have a better texture and flavor compared to frozen ones, although frozen shrimp will work as well if properly thawed.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so be sure to remove them from the heat as soon as they turn opaque to avoid rubbery shrimp.
Let the Sauce Simmer: Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes to develop the flavors before adding the shrimp.
Add Veggies: For a more well-rounded dish, add sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the sauce for extra flavor and texture.

Recipe Variations for Diablo Shrimp Recipe

Here are 10 variations you can try for Diablo Shrimp:

Coconut Diablo Shrimp: Add coconut milk to the sauce for a creamy, tropical twist that complements the spice.
Spicy Cajun Diablo Shrimp: Add Cajun seasoning for a smoky, spicy kick alongside the chili paste.
Diablo Shrimp Tacos: Serve the shrimp in soft corn tortillas with a drizzle of sour cream, salsa, and avocado for a spicy taco experience.
Lemon Garlic Diablo Shrimp: Add lemon zest and juice to the sauce for a citrusy variation with the spice.
Diablo Shrimp with Cilantro-Lime Rice: Serve the shrimp with a side of cilantro-lime rice to balance the heat with a refreshing flavor.
Diablo Shrimp and Grits: Serve the shrimp over creamy, buttery grits for a Southern-inspired twist.
Tomato Basil Diablo Shrimp: Stir fresh basil into the sauce for an aromatic and herbaceous flavor.
Mango Diablo Shrimp: Add fresh mango chunks to the sauce for a sweet and spicy contrast.
Spicy Garlic Butter Shrimp: Cook the shrimp in a garlic butter sauce, adding chili paste for the signature heat.
Diablo Shrimp Skewers: Thread the shrimp onto skewers and grill them for a smoky, charred flavor.

Freezing and Storage

Freezing: While it’s best to enjoy Diablo Shrimp fresh, you can freeze the cooked shrimp and sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat in a skillet before serving.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently over low heat to prevent overcooking the shrimp.

Special Equipment for Diablo Shrimp Recipe

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Diablo Shrimp easier:

Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: A wide pan helps to evenly cook the shrimp and develop the sauce.
Garlic Press: A garlic press makes mincing garlic quick and easy.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula: Stir the sauce and shrimp without worrying about scratching your pan.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients like chili paste, chicken broth, and lime juice.
Zester: A zester is useful if you decide to add lime zest for extra flavor.

FAQ Section for Diablo Shrimp Recipe

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp can be used, but make sure to thaw them thoroughly before cooking.
Can I make Diablo Shrimp ahead of time?
It’s best to prepare Diablo Shrimp fresh, but you can prep the sauce a day ahead and cook the shrimp just before serving.
Can I make this dish less spicy?
Yes, simply adjust the amount of chili paste and red pepper flakes to your preferred spice level.
Can I substitute the shrimp with another protein?
Yes, chicken, scallops, or even firm fish like cod can be used instead of shrimp in this recipe.
Can I serve Diablo Shrimp with pasta?
Absolutely! Diablo Shrimp pairs beautifully with pasta for a complete, satisfying meal.

Conclusion

This recipe is a fiery, flavorful dish that brings the heat and excitement to your table. The succulent shrimp are cooked in a rich, spicy sauce that combines bold flavors with a satisfying kick. Whether you’re a fan of spicy food or looking to add some zest to your meal, this dish is sure to deliver. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for a busy weeknight or a special dinner that’s guaranteed to impress.

With its versatile flavor profile, Diablo Shrimp can be served with a variety of sides, from rice and pasta to a simple salad. The sauce, rich with spices and a touch of heat, makes each bite a flavorful experience. It’s the perfect balance of spicy, savory, and fresh, with the shrimp providing a juicy and tender contrast to the bold sauce.

I’d love to see how your Diablo Shrimp turns out! Don’t forget to snap a photo and tag me on Instagram—I can’t wait to see your delicious creation! Feel free to leave a comment or share any adjustments you made to the recipe. Enjoy the heat and the flavor!